What are my responsibilities as a Tree Owner?
Generally speaking the person who owns the land that a tree is growing on also owns the tree. If the tree grows straddling a boundary then ownership is considered to be joint. As a tree owner you have a responsibility that your tree does not cause damage or injury to others. A tree owner is responsible for the health, safety and maintenance of their trees and are expected to ensure with reasonable foresight that any health and safety implications that may cause damage to another person or property are rectified. While it is not expected that owner is able to competently inspect a tree, it is expected that competent suitably qualified professional is employed to make an assessment on the trees in the owners care at regular intervals based on the trees location, size and potential to cause damage or harm.
